Mexico Boosts EV Initiatives: The Week in Automotive

In this week's automotive news, Mexico is advancing its Zero-Emission Vehicles Initiative at COP 29, aiming to reduce carbon emissions. The government is focusing on enhancing charging infrastructure to support EV adoption. Jaguar is expanding its presence in Mexico with a shift to electric luxury cars. General Motors is cutting 1,000 jobs, while Ford faces a US$165 million fine. Nissan is reducing jobs and production. Mexican customs have seized 3,200 irregular vehicles. Hyundai has appointed José Muñoz as co-CEO, and Grupo Amher has launched a connected dealership.

Fasten your seatbelt — this is the week in automotive!

Accelerating EV Adoption: The Role of Charging Infrastructure

The Mexican government can incentivize private entities and local authorities to invest in charging infrastructure through policy support and partnerships with international automakers and technology companies. By leveraging their expertise and resources, Mexico can develop charging solutions tailored to the local market, making the transition to electric vehicles more convenient and appealing.

Mexican Customs Reinforce Controls on Chocolate Cars

Mexican customs authorities in Tijuana are intensifying efforts to address the growing issue of irregularly imported vehicles, commonly known as “autos chocolate.” Over 3,200 such vehicles have been seized at the Tijuana customs office due to irregularities, primarily related to non-compliance with federal import regulations.

Jaguar Unveils Electric Strategy, Expands in Mexico

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) is making significant strides in both its Mexican operations and global strategy. In Mexico, the company is tackling supply chain disruptions by expanding its auto parts storage capacity. At the same time, JLR is unveiling a bold reimagining of the Jaguar brand, shifting towards becoming a fully electric luxury carmaker.

Mexico Advances Zero-Emission Vehicles Initiative at COP 29

A coalition representing the entire transportation value chain has united under the Zero Emission Vehicles Emerging Markets Initiative (ZEV-EM-I) to accelerate the electrification of Mexico’s transportation sector. Announced at COP 29, this initiative signals a transformative step toward reducing carbon emissions in Mexico’s fleet operations, including both passenger vehicles and freight trucks.

GM Cuts Nearly 1,000 Jobs Globally Amid EV Transition

General Motors (GM) has announced plans to lay off nearly 1,000 workers globally, including 507 employees at its Michigan tech center, as part of a broader effort to streamline operations and reduce costs. 

Millennials, Gen Z Transform Mexico's Auto Market J.D. Power

The Mexican automotive market is undergoing significant transformation, driven by the growing influence of Millennials and Generation Z, prompting automakers to rethink their sales and aftersales strategies to meet the evolving demands of younger consumers.

Nissan Cuts 9,000 Jobs, Slashes Production Amid Sales Drop

Nissan will cut 9,000 jobs and reduce production by 20% to save US$2.6 billion, as it deals with declining sales in China and the United States. The company also lowered its profit forecast by 70% because it is struggling with competition from Chinese automakers. The restructuring includes cost cuts, executive pay reductions, and a sale of 10% of its stake in Mitsubishi Motors.

Ford Faces US$165 Million Payout Over Faulty Camera Recall

Ford Motor Company has been fined US$165 million by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for delays in addressing defective rearview cameras in nearly 600,000 vehicles. This penalty is the second-largest in NHTSA's history.

José Muñoz Becomes Hyundai’s First Foreign Co-CEO

Hyundai Motor has appointed José Muñoz, its US chief and global chief operating officer, as the company’s new co-CEO, effective January 2025. This marks the first time a foreign national, specifically a Spaniard, has attained such a prominent position at a major South Korean conglomerate.

International Motors Debuts Dealership in Aguascalientes

Grupo Amher has unveiled CACESA Aguascalientes, the first connected International Motors dealership in Latin America. This state-of-the-art facility leverages advanced digital technologies, including the i360 Control Tower, to optimize maintenance operations and minimize downtime for transporters. 

Mexican Insurers Cut Coverage on Chinese Cars Due to Parts Risks

Mexican insurers are restricting coverage for Chinese cars due to supply chain issues impacting parts availability and repair risks. In early November, HDI Seguros, a major insurance provider in Mexico, announced a temporary suspension of coverage for several Chinese car brands, citing portfolio management considerations.